Singapore

Aqua Expeditions 

Offering exclusive expedition cruises in remote biodiversity hotspot destinations around the world is Italian-American entrepreneur Francesco Galli Zugaro. Inspired by his international upbringing, having lived across 16 countries and three continents, and exploring a business opportunity after a few years in private equity, Francesco founded <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> hosts high-end luxury cruises for couples or families who want to explore the world via charter, but without having to rent out an entire superyacht. The goal of each expedition, no matter in what corner of the world, is to create an experience that is both luxurious and adventurous, connecting like-minded travellers who want to explore without giving up their standard of luxury.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381267/image/large-33b9d2e7d7837ceb334b70171f40c553.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381267">Francesco’s&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>While <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> has been around for 20 years, Francesco himself has been a global explorer all his life. With an international upbringing and a professional background in finance and private equity, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> is the expression of his entrepreneurial spirit and global curiosity. Since its founding in 2007, guests of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> have cruised along the Peruvian Amazon and the Mekong river, and have embarked on ocean expeditions in the Galapagos, and all around the Indonesian Archipelago, including Raja Ampat, West Papua, Spice Islands and Komodo National Park.&nbsp;Now the most recent addition to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expedition</a> fleet is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Aqua Lares</a>, a 77.4-metre superyacht built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/684" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IHC Verschure (Company)">IHC Verschure</a> in 1974. Before receiving her new name, the superyacht, known as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Legend</a>, underwent extensive refits at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Shiprepair & Conversion (Company)">Damen Shiprepair &amp; Conversion</a> facilities in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Aqua Lares</a>’ original design features interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/686" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="John Misiag Design (Company)">John Misiag Design</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/687" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shelley McNaughton Interior Designs (Company)">Shelley McNaughton Interior Designs</a>, exterior designs by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/685" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M.E. Consulting (Company)">M.E. Consulting</a>, and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/684" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IHC Verschure (Company)">IHC Verschure</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/685" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M.E. Consulting (Company)">M.E. Consulting</a>. The latest refits were led by Francesco’s wife, Birgit Galli Zugaro, in collaboration with Milan based interior design firms <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381265/image/large-bc8035dcc814fb75ce1ad430aee69840.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381265">The renewed interior, shaped under Francesco’s personal supervision, aligns with the company’s signature look: refined, elegant, understated. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Aqua Lares</a>’ interiors showcase contemporary design at its finest,” Francesco notes. Onboard, curated details shape the atmosphere. Libraries are assembled by specialist editors, bespoke tableware crafted in Bali featuring motifs inspired by each destination and artwork sourced from a century old New York print shop. “There are a lot of unique pieces around the world,” he adds. “That’s why from scouting the destinations, building the itinerary and getting the ship ready; it takes three years to bring to market.”On a Global ExpeditionNot just the refit, but the voyage itineraries are also tested and tried by Francesco himself. “I took an expedition myself with my three kids and my wife earlier this summer on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Aqua Lares</a>. We went up north into the Arctic Circle, above 82 degrees to break ice and I wanted to see what she could do,” Francesco shares. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Aqua Lares</a> was originally built as an ice breaker with a steel hull, enabling her to break ice if needed when cruising around the Arctic Circle. “We were the northernmost vessel in the world. It was incredible… We’re 150 nautical miles from the North Pole, and on this iconic superyacht.” It is this feeling that Francesco strives to share with his guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381269/image/large-07c6bd49ed82b09574d85fa31d2715c3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381269">The main goal, however, of acquiring <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Aqua Lares</a> was to create an intimate chartering itinerary along the East African Coastline, chartering the yacht between the Seychelles and Zanzibar. It is an itinerary that Francesco has been working on for two decades: “I’ve done about 18 Sub-Saharan safaris in the last 20 years to scout out bodies of water,” he explained. The Seychelles, particularly their remote outer islands, stood out. “Very few guests have been to Aldabra,” he said. “Aldabra is the Galapagos of East Africa. It has 150,000 giant tortoises on one island and no human population.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381270/image/large-d18642427859b2707f3acf31e37f2211.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381270">A New Way to ExploreThe concept behind chartering onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Aqua Lares</a> is as disruptive as it is elegant. She is a superyacht designed to be booked by the cabin, an offering rarely seen at this level of luxury. “Nowhere in the Caribbean or Mediterranean can you book a superyacht by the cabin. I’m the only one doing this,” he said. “Especially in these remote iconic conservation destinations like Galapagos and East Africa.”The itineraries are structured with the finesse of someone who has spent years scouting every stretch of water personally. Scheduled five-, nine-, ten- and eleven-night routes will connect Mahé, the Seychelles outer islands and Zanzibar. Guests can combine segments or pair voyages with private safaris ashore in Tanzania and beyond. The appeal lies not only in the scenery and wildlife, but in how accessible it becomes. “A couple can book a beautiful suite on a superyacht and know they’ll be mingling with like-minded guests,” Francesco notes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381271/image/large-909967b45315a0c909353d9ac516bb39.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381271">Days onboard follow <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>’ immersive rhythm: Snorkelling, diving, hiking, beach landings and wildlife encounters are seamlessly woven into a schedule designed to energise rather than overwhelm. “People are that happy-exhausted,” he said with a smile. “We push them a little outside their comfort zone, and suddenly the barriers break down.” He shared an example from a recent Papua expedition: “We sat under a waterfall that falls straight into the ocean. People were blown away. No one else was around. They become like kids again.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381272/image/large-da50b7534af51f67fef14fb11000f0c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381272">Crew as the Soul of the VesselWhat makes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>' cruises most special, says Francesco, is the crew. “Our crew knows everybody’s name by the first morning,” he said. “They work for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua</a>, they’re not freelancers. They feel at home on the ship.” When building his team, Francesco looks for crew that are “passionate, authentic, and talented.”&nbsp;Not only that, but Francesco also emphasises on hiring destination locals. “They know the area and they’re genuinely from the region.” It allows Francesco to ensure that the destination-specific expertise is there: “If it’s Indonesia, it’s Indonesian crew, if it’s Ecuador, it’s Ecuadorian crew.”&nbsp;The number of crew per <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expedition</a> depends on the vessel, but also on the number of guests. Each experience has a minimum of 1:1 ratio, and with an average of 6,000 guests per year, it is clear that Francesco and his team know how to care for their guests, ensuring they have a unique, adventurous, and luxurious charter cruise experience. “Some guests have been coming back to the brand since we began and recognise most of the crew,” Francesco added.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381268/image/large-19c71f92a81dbd70f729d5c4474adfe6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381268">A Personal Project with Global ReachFor all the complexity behind <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Lares77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Aqua Lares</a>, her foundation is simple: a desire to give guests access to extraordinary places without unnecessary barriers. It is a philosophy Francesco continues to refine with each new vessel. “I’ve built a small brand, but within our demographic of affluent explorers, we’ve now got 40,000 loyal guests,” he said. “Competition doesn’t worry me. The only competition is where our guests want to go next.”This article was first published in the <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market</a> newsletter. You can read more <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">here</a>.

Aqua Expeditions' newest yacht: The recently refitted Aqua Lares 

Onboard Aqua Expeditions' newest addition: The recently refitted Aqua Lares

Luxury expedition cruise company Ponant Explorations Group has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in boutique cruise company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219385/image/large-aab6438965eaed2202c313bb35bfcd87.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219385">Known for their river and ocean cruises in South America, Southeast Asia and beyond, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> currently operates small ships in biodiversity hotspots such as the Galápagos, Raja Ampat, Komodo, Spice Islands, the Mekong River, and the Peruvian Amazon River.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=" The intersection between intrepid adventure and boutique living: Francesco Galli Zugaro of Aqua Expeditions (2022-04-13 14:00:00 +0200)">The intersection between intrepid adventure and boutique living: Francesco Galli Zugaro of Aqua Expeditions</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219401/image/large-08c01963a04bf38e8750322be7ba2057.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219401">The acquisition is backed by the Artémis Group, the Pinault family investment company which also owns fashion houses such as Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta and Balenciaga; auction house Christie’s, wine estates including Château Latour and entertainment and sports agency, Creative Artists Agency (CAA).“Joining forces with Ponant Explorations Group and having the support of the Artémis Group is a remarkable opportunity for Aqua Expeditions," said Francesco Galli Zugaro, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344896/image/large-2ab713db60fde561b4e17695c62ab4a2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344896">Francesco Galli Zugaro will remain as a shareholder and along with his senior management team, they will continue to operate as a stand-alone business unit under the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> brand.&nbsp;"Partnering with another family-owned business ensures we maintain a heritage of luxury in our brand,” added Galli Zugaro. “With the financial support and expertise from our partners, we are well-positioned to continue our growth and offer our guests unforgettable journeys to the world’s most biodiverse and culturally rich regions while maintaining our core brand values." <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219391/image/large-fe56204a43ef55e31fc9c07be967d0f2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219391">Ponant Explorations Group has been offering voyage explorations for over 35 years. With a fleet of 14 French-flagged small ships, they offer explorations onboard vessels fitted with he latest environmental technologies."We are thrilled to welcome <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> into the Ponant family," said Hervé Gastinel, CEO of Ponant Explorations Group. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of excellence and sustainability in the luxury sector.”&nbsp;“It reflects our commitment to offering unparalleled travel experiences in iconic destinations such as the Galápagos and now also river journeys, while preserving the natural beauty of the places we explore. We are deeply impressed with the exceptional company that Francesco has built over the past 18 years and the unique brand he has developed in the experiential travel space."&nbsp;

 Ponant Explorations Group acquires majority share of Aqua Expeditions

Expedition cruise company Ponant Explorations Group has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in boutique cruise company Aqua Expeditions.

The 4th Annual Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWI) Insight Summit, organised by the International University of Monaco, took place yesterday at the Méridien Beach Plaza. The event attracted approximately 100 participants, including <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a>, executives and thought leaders from the luxury industry, who gathered to discuss and learn about the latest strategies for engaging with UHNWIs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/315373/image/large-47729a5d30147ca4b4dda23e81ff2010.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/315373">Commenting on the event's objective Dr. Annalisa Tarquini-Poli explained: "The Annual UHNWI Insights Summit aims to bridge scientific research and management practices. By integrating evidence-based research with insights from the luxury industry, we provide participants with cutting-edge findings and trends. This approach offers a comprehensive view of the UHNWI landscape. I believe we have once again delivered new and compelling content for all our participants."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/315374/image/large-abeb74c9a01d2b3653368b46df7785cc.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/315374">The summit was inaugurated by Patrick Coote, Managing Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop & Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>, who served as the Master of Ceremony.Dr. Annalisa Tarquini-Poli and Prof. Dr. Phil Klaus from the International University of Monaco led a presentation titled "The Future is Now," focusing on mastering communication with the next generation of UHNWIs. They emphasised the importance for luxury brands to engage with younger UHNWIs, backed by interviews with luxury clients aged 20-30. Key trends identified included authenticity, purpose, and a sense of community.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/315370/image/large-e985489cad1871defeb10cba3e97edea.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/315370">With a significant generational wealth transfer anticipated by 2030, the researchers highlighted the necessity of capturing the attention of these younger clients. By analysing consumer trends, best practices, and direct insights, they underscored the need for brands to innovate their strategies to attract and retain this demographic, ensuring continued relevance and growth in a dynamic market.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/315372/image/large-c2fd41bf12c314df31f023be5f575387.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/315372">The summit then featured a round table discussion moderated by Lysebeth Fox, Founder and CEO of Fox Communications, on the theme "Design Effective Marketing &amp; Communication Strategies: Insights from the Frontline." Industry leaders, including Federico Rossi, COO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a>, Filippo Innocenti, Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6728" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zaha Hadid Architects (Company)">Zaha Hadid Architects</a>, and Francesco Galli Zugaro, CEO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>, shared their insights. The discussion highlighted the critical role of communication and design in the luxury market.Following the summit, an exclusive workshop titled "Narratives of Luxury: Crafting Stories that Captivate the UHNWI Market" was held at the International University of Monaco. Led by Prof. Dr. Phil Klaus and Dr. Annalisa Tarquini-Poli, the workshop provided participants with tailored storytelling strategies for engaging UHNWIs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/315375/image/large-475d1095b7c530076eaeece261f37fbb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/315375">“The success of these programs highlights the significant demand for understanding UHNWIs and their trends. While they are the smallest segment in the luxury market, they are the most powerful, accounting for one-third of the business.” commented: Prof. Dr. Phil Klaus.

Around 100 people attend 4th UHNWI Insight Summit

The 4th Annual UHNWI Insight Summit, organised by the International University of Monaco, took place at the Méridien Beach Plaza.

4th UHNWI Insight Summit draws around 100 participants

The Le Méridien Beach Plaza Hotel will host the 4th UHNWI Insight Summit on June 13th, 2024, from 9:30 to 12:00. This invitation-only event aims to be a highlight for professionals in the luxury sector, focusing on strategies to engage with Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) across different generations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286170/image/large-e9cb77650003214d447c9d1cd56d9e2b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286170">The summit will feature a keynote presentation by Prof. Dr. Phil Klaus and Dr. Annalisa Tarquini-Poli from the International University of Monaco. They will present their latest research on engaging a multigenerational client base and developing unique storytelling strategies tailored to UHNWIs. This session will be followed by a &nbsp;case study from Porsche, presented by Mr. Massimiliano Cariola, Marketing and CRM Director at Porsche Italia, which will delve into the challenges and successes of building a brand that resonates across age segments.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314835/image/large-aee13f7afef18c9dc695274e2b09861a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314835">Moderated by Mr. Patrick Coote, Managing Director of Europe at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop & Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>, the summit aims to provide luxury professionals with practical approaches to implementing effective communication and marketing strategies. The second part of the event will feature a round table discussion moderated by Lysbeth Fox, Founder and CEO of Fox Communications. This session will include contributions from high-profile industry leaders such as Mr. Federico Rossi, COO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a>, Mr. Filippo Innocenti, Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6728" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zaha Hadid Architects (Company)">Zaha Hadid Architects</a>, and Mr. Francesco Galli Zugaro, CEO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>. These experts will share their frontline insights on designing impactful marketing strategies.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314834/image/large-b70fe82ba35cff4a062b1e2363fe1fe6.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314834"> <ul><li>9:30 - Opening welcome speech: Dr. Jean-Philippe Muller, General Director, International University of Monaco</li><li>9:40 - Introduction of today’s topic: Karl-Henry Edström, CEO &amp; Publisher, Robb Report Monaco &amp; Côte d’Azur</li><li>9:50 - Keynote presentation: Engaging the Elite: Mastering Communication with UHNWIs by Prof. Dr. Phil Klaus and Dr. Annalisa Tarquini-Poli, International University of Monaco</li><li>10:10 - Case study: Relevance across generations: How to Build a Brand that Resonates Across Age Segments by Massimiliano Cariola, Marketing and CRM Director, Porsche Italia S.p.A.</li><li>10:30 - Coffee break</li><li>11:00 - Round Table Discussion: Design Effective Marketing and Communication Strategies: Insights from the Frontline moderated by Lysbeth Fox, Founder &amp; CEO of Fox Communications, featuring:</li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/307693/image/large-5ea7094776ea8ecf7022c76c247502e6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/307693">&nbsp; &nbsp; Federico Rossi, COO, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314886/image/large-1b12510dd071763a05f75ec739c9f361.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314886">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Filippo Innocenti, Director, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6728" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zaha Hadid Architects (Company)">Zaha Hadid Architects</a>&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314885/image/large-eae41dc4415aef6ab858fd0b124f4bd6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314885">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Francesco Galli Zugaro, CEO, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> <ul><li>12:00 - Closing drinks</li></ul> During the UHNWI Insight Summit, for the first time, the International University of Monaco will organise exclusive workshops. These workshops will take place on June 13th, 2024, from 14:30 to 18:00. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314883/image/large-7d14dbe9858862ddc4d8b15cd068d16c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314883">Titled: Narratives of Luxury: Crafting Stories that Captivate the UHNWI Market, the workshop will delve into developing unique storytelling tailored to specific target audiences within the luxury market. The workshop promises an intimate setting conducive to personalised learning and networking with peers and industry leaders. Attendees will benefit from both theoretical knowledge and practical guidance on implementing these strategies in real-world scenarios. This focused, hands-on approach ensures that participants leave with actionable insights and techniques to elevate their brand’s value proposition. The workshop will be led by experts Prof. Dr. Phil Klaus and Dr. Annalisa Tarquini-Poli.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314836/image/large-7a0f88d7276a6883da2f5d6926df8954.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314836">

 Le Méridien Beach Plaza Hotel set to host the 4th UHNWI Insight Summit

The Le Méridien Beach Plaza Hotel will host the 4th UHNWI Insight Summit on June 13th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM.

Le Méridien Beach Plaza Hotel to host the 4th UHNWI Insight Summit

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SuperYacht Times</a> catches up with the Italo-American CEO and founder Francesco Galli Zugaro, of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>, the boutique cruise company, during a break in his globe-trotting schedule. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219298/image/large-20f892b2ebaefe7b20fd632d2993305a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219298">The yacht charter and cruise ship experiences could not be more different. The largest cruise ships carry thousands of guests on fixed itineraries to popular and often overcrowded destinations. Even the smaller and more exclusive vessels cannot compare with luxury yacht charters offering a more intimate and personalised service, high-end cuisine and customisable itineraries.One person who is trying to narrow the gap with his own unique brand of expedition cruising is Francesco Galli Zugaro. In 2007 he set up <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions&nbsp;</a>as a luxury cruise line offering one-of-a-kind trips to some of the world’s most ecologically and culturally significant destinations.His first vessels were custom designed by international architects for cruising the Peruvian Amazon and the Mekong river in Cambodia and Vietnam. Created with modern luxury and comfort in mind, these award-winning boats changed the landscape of river cruising for select groups of what Galli Zugaro calls “affluent explorers”.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219385/image/large-aab6438965eaed2202c313bb35bfcd87.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219385">Then in 2019 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> branched out into coastal cruising and acquired 60-metre Titan, the explorer superyacht converted from a former Royal Navy survey vessel. With the help of Dutch designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/43" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cor D. Rover Design (Company)">Cor D Rover</a>, Titan was refitted into the 15-suite pocket cruise ship <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/142" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Blu60.4m (198'2&quot;)Brooke Marine Ltd.1968">Aqua Blu</a> for plying the pristine coastline of East Indonesia.The latest addition to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> fleet is the former 50-metre superyacht&nbsp;Dr No No, now rechristened <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Mare49.77m (163'3&quot;)CRN1998">Aqua Mare</a>. Launched as Pestifer by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> in 1998 with exterior lines by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/135" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Scanu srl (Company)">Paolo Scanu</a> and interior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuretti Interior Design (Company)">Francois Zuretti</a>, her interior was refurbished and two spacious staterooms added to the original five-cabin layout during a 2021 refit. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Mare49.77m (163'3&quot;)CRN1998">Aqua Mare&nbsp;</a>is currently in South America preparing for her maiden voyage with charter guests to the Galapagos in the spring.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223542/image/large-432cea82fd3f443e9131f3a82c4429d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223542">Why did you decide to make the transition from river to coastal cruising?&nbsp;It was a natural evolution. I started up <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a> with the intention of providing luxury expeditions to remote corners of the world, and it just happened that river cruisers were my first foray into building and owning my own vessels. So if you have a look at the map now we have five vessels operating on two iconic river systems, the Amazon and the Mekong, as well as the waters of East Indonesia and the Galapagos. Our demographic is not the typical cruise ship client; none of our guests plan to go on big cruise ships. They are affluent explorers who want to witness firsthand these remote, unspoiled sanctuaries away from the crowds, but without sacrificing the creature comforts they expect to find in world-class hotels, such as the fine dining and one-to-one service. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219401/image/large-08c01963a04bf38e8750322be7ba2057.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219401"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/142" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Blu60.4m (198'2&quot;)Brooke Marine Ltd.1968">Aqua Blu</a>, your first ocean-going cruiser, was repurposed from the explorer yacht Titan. Why refit rather than build new?&nbsp;The river cruisers –&nbsp;Aria Amazon, Aqua Mekong and Aqua Nera – were custom designed and built to suit a very specific purpose and navigation on inland waterways. But for ocean cruising there was no need to build new necessarily and I started travelling the world looking for the right pre-owned platform. I wanted something with 10-15 cabins more typical of the very big superyachts, but that would have meant a massive capital investment and a major refit.&nbsp;With help from my broker, I came across Titan in Genoa and thought she had the makings of a cruise ship. She had the steel hull, RINA, SOLAS and ISM classification, long range and a high interior volume of 1300 GT. There were already 11 cabins and the owner’s stateroom could be split up into three extra guest suites, and the icing on the cake was that the original Royal Navy vessel was called HMS Beagle after the ship that took Charles Darwin around the world and to the Galapagos. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223543/image/large-cca1271f567f60d3e7288061ecb4a2c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223543">We did a yard survey followed by six months of negotiations that caused a lot of grey hairs. The main difficulty was that I was buying from an owner whose purpose for having a yacht in the first place was recreational, whereas I was coming at it from a business perspective. The two sides don’t always meet eye to eye, but I persevered and eventually we were able to strike a deal.She made the voyage to Singapore on her own and then spent six months at the ST Marine shipyard. I’d met <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/43" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cor D. Rover Design (Company)">Cor D Rover</a> in Taiwan at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon shipyard</a> and hired him to redesign the owner’s suite, while my wife Birgit, the director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>, looked after the interior décor. We also flew in a team to completely overhaul the four original <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lister Blackstone (Company)">Lister Blackstone</a> 8-cylinder engines.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/142" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Blu60.4m (198'2&quot;)Brooke Marine Ltd.1968">Aqua Blu</a> entered into service at the end of 2019. She’s permanently based in Indonesia and alternates between Komodo National Park, the Spice Islands and the archipelago of Raja Ampat in the Coral Triangle, home to some of the most diverse underwater habitats in the world.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219387/image/large-831b98bf826d6b63a4c860652ff8601a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219387">Then came <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Mare49.77m (163'3&quot;)CRN1998">Aqua Mare</a>, formerly Dr No No and a very different kind of yacht from Titan. Talk me through the rationale behind her acquisition.I had asked <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/43" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cor D. Rover Design (Company)">Cor D Rover</a> to design a brand new 45-metre yacht, but then the Covid-19 pandemic came along and I wanted to get back to market quicker, so we started scouring the used market online and my son came across a video of Dr No No by David Seal. Typically a 50-metre yacht is under 500 GT, but at 640 GT Dr No No had the kind of interior volume I wanted. Within an hour or so I was on the phone to the broker and two weeks later met the owner in Turkey where we struck a deal and the yacht went into the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4857" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AK Yachts (Company)">AKYacht</a> shipyard for refit work. My wife oversaw the interior refurbishment, the formal dining room was converted into an extra suite so we now have seven cabins for 16 guests, and the hull was repainted exploration grey. We took delivery last November and her maiden voyage as a cruise ship to the Galapagos is scheduled for the coming May. It’s been a record-breaking effort, but we like to move quickly on these projects and I’m very happy with the results.&nbsp;The yacht market is bouncing back strongly from the knock-on effects of Covid-19. What has been the impact of the pandemic on&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>?Some things I’ve been able to control, others not. It was a sign of our financial strength that we went ahead with two new additions to the fleet over the last 12 months: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Mare49.77m (163'3&quot;)CRN1998">Aqua Mare</a> and our new Amazon cruiser, Aqua Nera. &nbsp;But I can’t do anything about the travel restrictions. I can try and innovate, but I’m not going to turn my ships into floating restaurants or anything like that. The fundamentals of our niche are still as valid today as they’ve always been, because there isn’t another company operating luxury cruise ships of the same size and nature as ours.&nbsp;My feeling is we’re going to see a lot of revenge cruising in the coming months from adventure seekers that have put off that bucket list trip until later in life and are realising that now might be the right time. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219393/image/large-6f0e75df23037ddaf11ae4f578bd96f1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219393"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219389/image/large-5305ad5b61d5eb2121e23b00947d9fe5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219389"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219388/image/large-ad3eb3e3ab6fffd1217aab75a9b32c42.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219388">In terms of demographics, is there any crossover between your guests and the clientele for large yacht charters?There is some commonality and I think that may grow as we see a younger clientele emerging. The average age of our guests is around 55, but during Covid we’ve definitely seen the rise of a younger group. The first charter of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/142" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Blu60.4m (198'2&quot;)Brooke Marine Ltd.1968">Aqua Blu</a>, for example, was a group of friends from the Middle East who were all in their 30s. For the Galapagos we’re getting requests from families with younger kids, and we’ve dropped the minimum age from 7 to 5 across our fleet. So we’re getting a younger clientele who are into nature, wildlife and the outdoors.&nbsp;You also have to remember that it’s very complicated taking a charter yacht to the Galapagos, for example. The owner and a naturalist have to be on board, you have to have a full hull inspection to ensure you don’t bring in invasive species, and you’re required to follow a set itinerary. That’s enough to put off most yacht owners, so there is definitely a market for high-calibre yachts that can be chartered on site.&nbsp;The majority of our business is through cabin bookings, which is very rare for vessels like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/142" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Blu60.4m (198'2&quot;)Brooke Marine Ltd.1968">Aqua Blu&nbsp;</a>or <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Mare49.77m (163'3&quot;)CRN1998">Aqua Mare</a> that would typically cost around 250,000 euros per week plus APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) to charter. Our guests know exactly how much they pay from the start and I think that transparency is appealing.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219400/image/large-68687789044b178ec55b1eb8a5365a8e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219400">What’s the next step for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6639" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aqua Expeditions (Company)">Aqua Expeditions</a>?At 48 I still have enough energy to grow the brand and build on our reputation. I have my work cut out and I spend a lot of time scouting new destinations. For example, I was recently in Zimbabwe looking for opportunities on Lake Kariba. I’ve also explored the Kimberley coast in Western Australia and the Seychelles, even the Med and the Caribbean, because our guests are also going there and it’s very hard to find a superyacht that you can charter by the cabin. There are still lots of river cruising opportunities, but do they have wildlife and nature, is it a year-round season, and are they easily accessible by air? You need to tick all the right boxes.&nbsp;This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-40-published" target="_blank">Issue 40 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a><a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-40-published" target="_blank">.</a> To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

SYT exclusive interview with the founder and CEO of aqua expeditions

SYT catches up with the CEO and founder of Aqua Expeditions, the boutique cruise company.